Experts warn of a dangerous winter disease that can cause extreme vomiting or diarrhea. This highly contagious virus can be spread by the patient even a few days after he is cured. , health officials are sounding the alarm and calling on the public to take precautions.
- Experts warn of a contagious winter disease called norovirus.
- The disease causes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- The virus spreads through contact with an infected person or contaminated water, food and surfaces.
- Experts advise patients to stay at home for at least two days after symptoms subside.
- For prevention, they recommend regular hand washing and surface disinfection.
The disease known as norovirus spreads most often during the winter months. to they are most often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Some patients, however they may also experience headache, fever or muscle aches.
Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure to the virus and usually resolve within 24 to 72 hours. Although there is no specific treatment for norovirus, health professionals appeal to the need for regular fluid replenishment. Most patients recover quickly, but adults over 65, young children and immunocompromised people are at higher risk of serious complications or death.
Norovirus is usually spread by contact with an infected person or through contaminated surfaces, water or food. You can still spread the virus for two weeks after you start feeling better. “Increased incidence is recorded, for example, in medical facilities, restaurants, at social events with refreshments, in schools and children’s centers,” said Dr. Joanna Turner Bisgrove.
Norovirus cases increase during the winter. (illustrative photo)
Source:
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How to stop its spread?
The US CDC recommends that you regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after using the toilet, changing diapers, before eating or handling food, and before giving medicine to yourself or other people. It should also be emphasized that, unlike many other viruses, hand sanitizer gel does not replace hand washing in this case.
In addition, you should regularly clean frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, mobile phones and toys. But it can be difficult, according to Bisgrove, because norovirus is resistant to most disinfectants. “Can survive on food, worktops and serving utensils for up to two weeks, even in freezing temperatures and temperatures up to 60°C“, she added.
If you have been infected with norovirus, experts advise staying at home and avoiding close contact with other people for at least two days after symptoms subside. “Do not handle food and clean all infected surfaces. Wear gloves when cleaning and wash clothes only in hot water,” they stressed.
